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10 ways travelers can save some scratch
Common nickel-and-dime charges, and how to avoid them
 | There are several ways savvy travelers can avoid common charges that can quickly add up. |
Mark Wilson / Getty Images file |
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Car rental insurance
You’re out of town and the agent asks you, “Would you like collision coverage for your rental?” Then, when you say no, the agent tries to scare you into second-guessing your choice. (Sometimes the cost of the insurance is as much as the car rental!) What you should know is that your own auto insurance probably covers that rental car, so before you head out on your next trip, give your insurance agent a call. Also, many credit cards extend insurance coverage if you use that credit card for the car rental. Many people think this coverage is bogus, but it’s not. Last winter a friend of mine returned from a day of skiing to find his rental car was the victim of a hit-and-run. His credit card company covered the entire expense.
Hotel parking
Think you got a sweet deal on that hotel? Think again. Many hotels charge as much as $20 a night for parking, which I think is a rip-off considering hotel prices are so high these days. So, before you confirm that reservation, ask if there is free parking for guests.
Next-day tickets
You learn at the last minute that you need to travel tomorrow for some important event. Airlines typically charge astronomical fares for next-day flights. They do this because they know you are desperate and that you will pay almost anything. Don’t pay those fares without first doing an Internet search, which can sometimes turn up some surprising last-minute specials. A friend of mine once needed a ticket for a flight to Los Angeles in less than four hours time. He found one on Lowestfare.com for $200 when the airline was trying to charge him $900.
Hidden fees
Have you ever checked your ticket invoice and counted up the hidden fees? There can be fees for airport construction, security, and airport access, not to mention excise and customs charges, gate taxes, country taxes, value-added taxes and even 9/11 charges. Personally, I am surprised not to find an Overpaid Airline Executive fee. There is no way to avoid paying these taxes and fees, but I understand they are all tax-deductible. If you travel enough, they can add up to quite a bit.
The useless upgrade (Part 1)
Some airlines are now charging extra for some aisle seats and window seats or for the roomier seats in economy. An agent will ask you at check-in if you are interested in paying a nominal fee for one of these seats. Before you take out your wallet, ask if the flight is oversold, because if it’s not, you may be paying for something you can have for free. Mind you, if your flight is full and more than two hours long, the extra cost might just be worth it.
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